26.1 C
Dubai
Tuesday, November 5, 2024
spot_img

UAE: Omicron variant could cause prolonged Covid in some cases, doctors say – News

[ad_1]

This strain causes a milder infection but can cause long-term symptoms



By SM Ayaz Zakir

Posted: Wednesday, August 17, 2022, 8:56 am

The threat of Covid 19 is not over yet. UAE doctors say the current Omicron variant has the potential to cause long-term infections.

“Omicron infection usually results in milder disease than earlier variant infections, but in some cases it can lead to prolonged Covid. Data suggest that Omicron can re-infect individuals even if they have recently recovered from Covid 19,” Shah said. Dr. Abdalkarim Nassar, a pulmonary specialist at Burjeel Specialist Hospital in Ghat, said.

But doctors have confirmed that the current variant infection is very mild and hospitalizations are rare. “Patients rarely require hospitalization unless they have comorbidities who may present with fever associated with cough, dyspnea (shortness of breath) and chest infiltrates. An episode of dyspnea indicates immediate medical intervention,” Ajman Thumbay University Hospital Infection Control chief Dr Fiaz Ahmed said.

“Immunocompromised elderly and chronically ill patients must see a doctor, as some may require hospitalization,” Dr. Nassar said.

However, health care experts say infection with the Omicron variant produces symptoms similar to previous variants, and the disease can range from asymptomatic infection to mild symptoms.

The symptoms of the current Omicron strain are:

– sore throat

– hoarse voice

– cough

– fatigue

– stuffy nose

– runny nose

– Headache

– Muscle pain

– sneezing

– Myalgia

– Sometimes diarrhea

Dr. Ahmed explained the differences between the current variants. “The Omicron B.1.1.529 variant and the subsequent Omicron lineage BA.2, followed by BA.2.12.1, have the advantage of greater replication to elicit infection in individuals with vaccine-induced immunity,”

Doctors believe that in some cases, patients will get better on their own. “However, if a person has any symptoms, it is best to consult a doctor and seek his advice as these symptoms may not necessarily be related to Covid-19,”

If anyone has been in contact with an infected person or has any symptoms, doctors advise residents to get a PCR test right away. “If you have symptoms, you should get tested, even if you are fully vaccinated. Vaccines are an important measure to protect people from Covid 19,” Dr Nassar said.

They also advised residents to get vaccinated on time, including booster shots, wear masks in public, and follow basic health and hygiene practices to prevent Covid 19.

ayaz@khaleejtimes.com

Also read:

[ad_2]

Source link

Related Articles

The Journey of Berrylush: A Story of Passion, Perseverance, and Purpose

In 2018, Berrylush was born from the shared vision of two IIM graduates, AnushaChandrashekar and Alok Paul, who saw a glaring gap in the...

UAE Strengthens Global Alliances: Landmark Diplomatic Engagements with Russia and Singapore Propel Strategic Partnerships

UAE has been actively engaged in high-level diplomatic efforts, further cementing its role as a key player on the global stage. Recently, President Sheikh Mohamed...

Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Join Forces to Shape UAE’s Future Development

Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, convened for high-level discussions centered on the...

New Bridges on Al Khail Road Boost Mobility and Unlock Growth

New bridges on Al Khail Road marks a major milestone in the UAE’s commitment to enhancing mobility and supporting economic growth. As one of Dubai’s...

UAE Visa Amnesty Program Empowers Thousands with a Fresh Start.

UAE latest visa amnesty program has brought a wave of relief and optimism, offering thousands of individuals an opportunity to regularize their immigration status. Launched...

Latest Articles